Astigmatism is a common vision condition caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens that leads to blurred or distorted vision at all distances. While glasses and traditional contact lenses can often correct mild to moderate astigmatism, individuals with more complex or irregular corneal shapes may struggle to achieve clear, stable vision with these options. That’s where scleral lenses come in.
 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas-permeable contact lenses that vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the white part of the eye called the sclera. Unlike traditional contact lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses create a tear-filled chamber between the lens and the eye, offering a more customized and stable fit.
 

Superior Vision Correction

Scleral lenses provide crisp, clear vision by neutralizing the irregularities of the cornea, which is especially beneficial for individuals with high or irregular astigmatism. Their rigid design ensures light is properly focused onto the retina, often resulting in sharper vision than glasses or soft lenses.
 

Enhanced Comfort

Despite their size, scleral lenses are known for their comfort. The fluid reservoir between the lens and cornea provides constant hydration, making them an excellent choice for patients with dry eyes or those who find traditional lenses uncomfortable.
 

Stability and Secure Fit

Because they rest on the sclera, which is less sensitive than the cornea, scleral lenses are less likely to move around or dislodge. This stability is crucial for individuals with active lifestyles or those who experience frequent lens rotation with toric lenses.
 

Protection for Sensitive Eyes

The tear-filled space beneath scleral lenses acts as a protective barrier, shielding the cornea from environmental irritants and mechanical friction. This is especially beneficial for those with corneal scarring, keratoconus, or post-surgical irregularities.
 

Are Scleral Lenses Right for You?

If you've been struggling with distorted vision due to astigmatism and haven’t found success with glasses or soft contact lenses, scleral lenses may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Our experienced optometrists specialize in custom-fitting scleral lenses to meet your unique vision needs and ensure long-term comfort and clarity.
 

Schedule your contact lens exam at East Vancouver Eye to discover if scleral lenses are right for your astigmatism. Visit our office in Vancouver, Washington, or call (360) 449-3937 to book an appointment today.